The moon is seen during a total lunar eclipse from Cairo June 15, 2011. During the eclipse, the earth is lined up directly between the sun and the moon, casting the earth's shadow over the moon. [Photo/Agencies]

SYDNEY - Asian and African night owls were treated to a lunar eclipse, and ash in the atmosphere from a Chilean volcano turned it blood red for some viewers.

The Sydney Observatory said the eclipse was to begin at 3:25 am Thursday (1:25 pm EDT, 5:25 pm GMT Wednesday) and last until after 5 a.m.

Scientists said the specific phenomenon happening Thursday _ known as a "deep lunar eclipse" _ often exudes a coppery color. But the intensity of the color depends on the amount of ash and dust in the atmosphere.

Luckily for moon-gazers, there was plenty of ash in the air so the moon appeared orange or red, especially in Asia. Air travelers haven't been so lucky: The ash has grounded hundreds of flights around the region.

Scientists said the eclipse could be safely observed with the naked eye.